[2025 Matsuyama Attraction] Travel Guide for Ishiteji Temple (Updated Jun)

Introducing Ishiteji Temple in Matsue City, Ehime Prefecture. It has seven important cultural properties, and the grounds are very large, so there is a lot to see! It is the 51st temple of the 88 Shikoku Pilgrimage and is also known as a power spot. There is a mantra cave in Ishiteji Temple, and since there is almost no lighting and it is pitch black, many people walked around using their cell phone lights! Overall, it was a temple with a very mysterious atmosphere. Ishiteji Temple is near Dogo Onsen, so please stop by while sightseeing♪ [Ishiteji Temple] 📍2-9-21 Ishite, Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture 🚗Free parking available Admission fee/Free for individuals Admission to the treasure museum/200 yen #Domestic travel #Ishiteji Temple #Ehime travel #Dogo Onsen #Power spot #Important cultural property #Mantra cave #Outing #Matsue City #Matsue sightseeing

I went to Ehime Matsuyama and discovered the charm of Shikoku. If you have been to Osaka, Kyoto, or Tokyo, Shikoku may be another good choice for you to explore Japan. If you go to Dogo Onsen Honkan and just take pictures outside, you will only get a tourist photo full of people. If you walk for a few minutes to the Sora no Promenade, you can enjoy the beauty of the hundreds of years old building "Dogo Onsen Honkan" from a high place. At the same time, there is a free foot bath here, which is relatively low in temperature. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery with three or five friends, families or couples while soaking in the foot bath. In Ehime Matsuyama, most travelers plan for two days and one night. If you want to extend the exploration of the charm of Matsuyama, you can add Imabari, Uwajima, and Ishizuchiyama. Or the itinerary radiates to Kochi or Kagawa. The following is a two-day and one-night itinerary that I personally walked, providing suggestions. Day1: Plan to arrive at noon, check in at the hotel first or store your luggage first. Most hotels are located in the Okaido shopping street or Katsuyama-cho. You can first taste the famous sea bream rice in Matsuyama in the Okaido shopping street. 📍Address: 2 Chome−２−3, Ehime, Matsuyama, Okaido, 790-0004, Japan After lunch, take the tram to Dogo Onsen Station. Don’t rush at this time. The clock of the official announcement of the park will have a cute Bo-chan theme every hour. And there is also a foot bath for travelers to use. 📍Address of the Park: 6−7, Dogo Yu-no-machi, Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture, 790-0842 It is recommended to walk to Ishitemachi Temple first, walk for about 15 minutes, and feel the beauty of the traditional temple recommended by Michelin one star, then go through the cave to the mysterious Fudoki Hill to experience the incredible Mantua-style architecture. 📍Ishitemachi Temple Address: 2 Chome-9-21 Ishite, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-0852 Japan 📍Fudoki-no-Oka Address: Jokojicho, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-0851 Japan Then walk along the mountain road, and you will reach Isaniwa Shrine in about ten minutes. This is the main shrine of Dogo and one of the three major Hachiman-style buildings in Japan. Explore the beautiful Japanese architecture and faith stories. Then walk for five minutes to Yu Shrine and Nakajima Shrine to learn about the legend of Dogo Onsen. 📍Isaniwa Shrine Address: 173 Sakuradanicho, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-0838 Japan 📍Yu Shrine Address: 4-4-10 Dogoyunomachi, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-0842 Japan Walk along the left side of Yu Shrine for one minute and you will arrive at the "Sora no Sanpachi" where you can soak in the foot bath and enjoy the beautiful Dogo Onsen Main Building. 📍Address: 4-30 Dogoyunomachi, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-0842 Japan Then don't miss it and experience the Dogo Onsen Main Building which has just been renovated and opened after five and a half years. Take a bath, rest in the Japanese-style room and take photos to feel the flow of time in Dogo Onsen. 📍Dogo Onsen Main Building Address: 5-6 Dogoyunomachi, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-0842 Japan It's dinner time. You can go to Dogo Shopping Street and have a meal here. Don't miss the different architectural styles of Dogo Onsen Annex "Asuka no Onsen" next to the shopping street. Finally, walk to the station, take the tram to Okaido Station, check in at the hotel and rest. Day2: If you stay at Okaido Station, you can walk to Higashi-Umoguchi Cable Car Station and take the cable car or ropeway to Matsuyama Castle. It is recommended to take the cable car up and the ropeway down, so you can experience two different experiences at once. 📍Cable Station Address: 73 Marunouchi, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-0008 Japan In Matsuyama Castle, you can fully experience the majesty and history. At the same time, you can add the Sakano no Kumo Museum to your itinerary to experience the era and characters written by Shiba Ryotaro or in the Taiga drama. 📍Sakano-no-kumo Address: Japan 〒790-0001 Ehime, Matsuyama, Ichibancho, 3 Chome−２０ 📍Matsuyama Castle Address: 1 Marunouchi, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-0008 Japan After returning to Higashiguchi, don't miss the castle town. There are citrus juice that you can drink from the tap, excellent towels made in Imabari, and souvenirs from Ehime. There are also many restaurant options here. I tried a fashionable sea bream ramen here, and the refreshing taste is very special. Of course, there is also a cafe here, where you can enjoy coffee, desserts and light meals. 📍Address: 3 Chome-6-4 Okaido, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-0004 Japan #5月好去处2025

After visiting Ishite-ji Temple, I stumbled upon a cave entrance called Hachijuhachireijo Dotsuten Cave. The entrance gate bore the inscription "Mandala." As it was nearing dusk, the temple was quiet with few visitors. After offering some coins, I stepped into this mysterious cave, only to discover an entirely different world inside. Dim lights illuminated the pathway, lined with small Jizo statues and various signs describing Buddhist teachings and Zen philosophy. Walking through the cave alone, with no other visitors, I initially felt a mix of fear and curiosity. But as I ventured further, it became a journey of self-reflection. Emerging from the cave, I saw a statue of Kobo Daishi atop the rock formation. Suddenly, I felt a sense of understanding—perhaps, like the pilgrims of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, the process of visiting the eighty-eight sacred sites is a solitary quest for inner peace. Later, I researched Japanese sources and learned that this might be a site for Vajrayana practices, where observation, contemplation, and eventual enlightenment take place. Continuing along the path from the cave entrance, I came across a mysterious structure—a golden onion-shaped pagoda guarded by two stone lions. Google Maps revealed that this place is called "Fudoki Hill - Mandala," which is part of Ishite-ji Temple but with a completely different style. A pair of hands holding marbles, with many scattered around, created a surreal atmosphere reminiscent of the scene in Spirited Away where one crosses a tunnel into another world. Inside the main hall, on the right, there is a wooden statue of an ascetic Buddha, depicting the state of the Buddha during his practice before enlightenment. Nearby are 500 Rakan statues with diverse expressions—joyful, wrathful, compassionate, and serene—forming a mysterious and surreal space. If you visit Ishite-ji Temple, I highly recommend exploring this area to experience the fusion of Buddhist esotericism and the enchanting otherworldly atmosphere. 📍Address: Jokojicho, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-0851, Japan 🚗 Access: A 20-minute walk from Dogo Onsen Station on the Matsuyama Tram Line.

This is a very special temple, with a style different from the Japanese temples I have visited before. It has been recommended by the Michelin Guide with one star, and is also the birthplace of Shikoku Pilgrimage. Let's start with history. According to legend, 1,200 years ago, Kobo Daishi founded 88 temples in Shikoku, and Ishitemura Temple was the 51st. According to the tiles unearthed from the temple, it was discovered that the predecessor was an affiliated facility of Nara Horyuji Temple during the Hakuho period. Ishitemura Temple was actually Anyang Temple at the beginning, and Gyoki Shonin personally carved the statue of Yakushi Nyorai for worship. The name change to Ishitemura Temple is related to the first person to walk the 1,200-kilometer pilgrimage, Saburo Emon. At that time, Saburo Emon followed Kobo Daishi on the pilgrimage, but unfortunately fell seriously ill on the way. He held a stone with "Emon Saburo Returns" in his hand, hoping to be reborn in the next life as a daimyo of Iyo Province, Kono family. Because of this allusion, the name of Ishitemura Temple came into being, and the stone was also enshrined in Ishitemura Temple. Today, Niomon Gate is listed as a national treasure in Japan. There is a pair of large straw sandals on the gate. It is said that believers with bad legs can be cured as long as they pray sincerely. The main hall and the three-story pagoda are also listed as important cultural properties. In the Edo period, more than 10,000 people walked the Shikoku Pilgrimage. During the worship, several practitioners were also met. When they worshipped, they would chant sutras in front of the main hall and then leave, with bells hanging on their bodies. When I chatted with the temple staff when asking for the Goshuin, I found that the people who walked the Shikoku Pilgrimage ranged from their twenties to their seventies and eighties. Most of them wanted to "find themselves", and the age group of 20-40 years old accounted for the most people. It was a bit like the Japanese version of the pilgrimage road. If you ride a bicycle to walk the Shikoku Pilgrimage, it will take at least two weeks; if you walk purely, it will take more than 40 days. There are mini pilgrimage incense bags of 88 temples next to the temple, which can also feel the determination and perseverance of the practitioners of the Pilgrimage. 📍Address: 2 Chome-9-21 Ishite, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-0852 Japan 🚗Take the Matsuyama tram to Dogo Onsen Station, and walk for 20 minutes. #5月好去处2025

Dogo Onsen, a lingering affection through the ages 💧 Matsuyama Castle, quietly guarding the glorious years of the past 🏯 Coastal scenery, unfolding a natural scroll 🌊 Cultural exhibition halls, igniting the flames of civilization ☀️ 📍Detailed Address Matsuyama City is located in the central part of Ehime Prefecture on Shikoku Island, Japan. It is nestled between mountains and the sea, facing the Iyo灘 to the north and surrounded by mountains. Its unique geographical location endows it with charming mountain and sea scenery. 🚘Transportation Guide ✈️Airplane: Matsuyama Airport is the city's gateway. There are direct flights from major Japanese cities such as Tokyo Haneda Airport and Osaka Itami Airport, with a flight time of approximately 1.5–2.5 hrs. Tourists departing from China can first arrive at hub cities such as Tokyo or Osaka and then transfer to Matsuyama. 🚅Train: Matsuyama is easily accessible by JR Shikoku Railway. The "Limited Express Train" offers beautiful scenery and faster speeds. For example, departing from Takamatsu, you can enjoy the rural scenery of Shikoku along the way. In addition, there are special themed trains, such as the cute "Anpanman Train," which adds fun to the journey. 🚌Bus: Bus routes are extensive and convenient for traveling to both city attractions and surrounding towns. Some buses also offer one-day passes, usually priced around JPY 1,000–1,500, allowing unlimited rides, which is very cost-effective. 🚖Taxi: Taxi stands are available at airports, stations, and other locations. Taxi fares in Japan are relatively high, with a starting fare of approximately JPY 660–710/2 km. The fare increases incrementally for each subsequent distance traveled. A 20% surcharge applies for late-night rides. 🍽Food Recommendations 🍲Sea Bream Rice: Ehime Prefecture's signature dish, made with freshly caught local sea bream and soft glutinous rice. There are various ways to enjoy it, such as sashimi, dipping in soy sauce, adding soup to the rice, or wrapping it with raw egg and rice, catering to different tastes. Recommended restaurants include "Matsuyama Taimeshi Akiyoshi," which often has long queues, but the taste is definitely worth the wait, with branches in Matsuyama Castle and Dogo; "Ganso Uwajima Taimeshi" is equally famous, also with branches in Matsuyama Castle and Dogo; "Taimeshi Maki" is located opposite Matsuyama Station, where you can enjoy fresh and delicious sea bream rice without queuing, and there's even a triple-size option for those with a big appetite. 🍲Ehime Local Cuisine: Highly local and cost-effective, allowing you to savor the authentic local flavors. For example, "localcuisinekadoya," in addition to sea bream rice, also offers maru sushi, small fish, and Satsuma rice, which are worth trying. 🍲Eel Rice: "Unagi Ogura" is quite famous. The grilled eel and beef here are both delicious. There are also special snacks such as eel rice balls, eel omelets, and grilled eel liver. 🍲Faucet Ehime Juice: Ehime is known as the "Orange Kingdom," with an annual orange production of up to 200,000 tons and over 40 varieties. At "Iori Honten," you can choose a juice set with three varieties, and the orange mosaic background is perfect for taking photos; "Ehime no Shokutaku 1970" offers a wide variety of oranges, which you can select and pay for at the counter; "10factory," although without a faucet, has a dazzling array of orange products and allows you to bottle the juice to take away, with sets of three or six cups available. 🍲Various Desserts: The daifuku at "Kiri no Mori Kashikobo" has an excellent texture and is served with green tea, complementing each other perfectly; the milk cheesecake at "Dogo Milk Cheesecake" is not to be missed, especially the orange flavor, which looks realistic and contains a whole fresh orange; the bear-shaped egg waffles at "Okaki Dokoro Terakoyahonpo" are adorable and recommended with orange ice cream for a rich taste. 📸Must-See Attractions 🎬Matsuyama Castle: One of the only 12 remaining castle towers in Japan, with a long history. You can choose to take the single-person cable car up the mountain. Once at the top, the magnificent scenery of the Seto Inland Sea and the panoramic view of Matsuyama's ancient city unfold before your eyes, making you feel as if you've traveled back in time. 🎬Dogo Onsen: With a 3,000-year history, it is one of Japan's three oldest hot springs and the inspiration for the bathhouse in Hayao Miyazaki's animated film "Spirited Away." The Dogo Onsen Honkan is the first public bathhouse in Japan to be listed as a National Important Cultural Property. The wooden architecture inside is simple and elegant, the corridors are as intricate as a maze, and the drum is beaten three times a day (morning, noon, and evening), creating a sense of ritual. There are also historical temples such as Ishite-ji and Hoon-ji nearby, as well as rows of souvenir shops worth visiting. 🎬Shimonada Station: Known as the beautiful unmanned station closest to the sea, it looks like something out of an anime, full of dreamy colors. Taking photos here while waiting for the train to pass slowly creates stunning pictures in every frame. 🎬Ehime Prefectural Museum of Art: The museum houses a large collection of artworks, covering various fields from traditional Japanese painting to modern art. Art lovers can feast their eyes here and experience the charm of art. 🏠Recommended Nearby Attractions 📍Baishinji Station: Not only can you enjoy the beautiful seaside scenery, but there are also various foods and drinks made with mikan oranges. Enjoying the food while admiring the sea view is also a great photo opportunity. 📍Ishite-ji Temple: Located near Dogo Onsen, it is a historic ancient temple with simple and elegant architecture. The temple environment is quiet and peaceful, and strolling through it allows you to feel the strong Buddhist atmosphere. ✨Travel Experience ✅In Matsuyama, during the daytime, you can shuttle between ancient castles and temples, touching the heavy traces of history; you can also soak in the warm hot springs, relax, and enjoy a pleasant time. ✅In the evening, go to a lively izakaya, taste the local cuisine, have a drink, and experience the vibrant atmosphere. ✅Whether you're chasing the dreamlike scenes from anime or exploring hidden culinary treasures, Matsuyama can satisfy all your expectations for a trip to Japan, leaving you with warm and unforgettable memories.

Hey everyone! Today, we're taking you to Matsuyama to explore a thousand-year-old temple—✨ Ishite-ji! As the 51st temple on the 88-temple Shikoku Pilgrimage circuit, it's not only steeped in a mystical religious atmosphere but also brimming with unique cultural and historical stories 📜! If you're interested in Japanese temple culture or seeking inner peace, this is a must-visit! 🌿 ⸻ 🌟 Why Visit? ✅ A key temple on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, attracting pilgrims from all over the world! 👣 ✅ National Treasure Niomon Gate & Three-Storied Pagoda, rich in historical charm! 🏯 ✅ Mysterious underground passage symbolizing a "pilgrimage to hell," offering a truly immersive experience! 🔦 ✅ Unique Buddhist statues and origami cranes, providing a glimpse into Japanese religious culture! 🙏 ⸻ 📅 Visiting Guide 🔹 Opening Hours: Open all day (some areas 9:00 am - 5:00 pm) 🔹 Admission: Free (some experiences may have fees) 🔹 Must-See Spots: • Niomon Gate (National Treasure): Nearly 700 years old, truly magnificent! 🏯 • Three-Storied Pagoda: The towering vermilion pagoda is the temple's iconic landmark! 📸 • Pilgrimage to Hell Tunnel: Dark and mysterious, walking through it feels like entering another world! 🔦 • "Good Luck Stone" at the Temizuya: Legend says it brings good luck, so give it a touch! 🪨 ⸻ 🚗 Getting There 📍 Address: 2-9-21 Ishite, Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture, Japan 🇯🇵 🚋 From Matsuyama Station: • Take the Iyo Railway City Tram to "Dogo Onsen Station," then walk about 15 minutes. • From Dogo Onsen, take a direct bus, about a 5-minute ride 🚌. • If driving, there's a parking lot near the temple, but spaces are limited, so arrive early! 🚗 ⸻ 💗 Other Tips 🔹 Combine your visit with a trip to Dogo Onsen ♨️. Enjoy a stroll through the temple before or after your onsen experience for a sense of tranquility! 🔹 The temple has many unique Buddhist statues and ema (votive tablets). Make a wish or pray for good fortune! ✨ 🔹 The "Pilgrimage to Hell" tunnel is very dark, so it's not recommended for those with claustrophobia! 🔦 🔹 Pilgrimage Experience: If you're interested in the Shikoku Pilgrimage, this is a great place to experience the pilgrimage culture! 👣 ⸻ 📌 Summary: Ishite-ji Temple is not only an important and sacred temple on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, but it also blends mystery, history, and culture! If you're traveling to Matsuyama, be sure to visit and experience the unique atmosphere of this ancient temple! ⛩️✨

Matsuyama, located in Ehime Prefecture, Japan, is a captivating travel destination. In terms of must-see attractions, the 3,000-year-old Dogo Onsen is not to be missed. The Dogo Onsen Honkan main building is unique, and bathing in the hot springs can soothe your body and mind. Matsuyama Castle is one of Japan's most beautiful original castles. You can take a cable car or hike to the top, overlooking the beautiful city while experiencing its rich history. Dogo Onsen Station has a retro Starbucks, the Botchan Train, and the Botchan Karakuri Clock, which has special performances on the hour and half hour. For food, be sure to try Ehime's citrus products and fresh seafood. For shopping, Okaido offers unique souvenirs. If you have enough time, take a boat from Matsuyama Port to the Guna Islands and experience the island life. For transportation within the city, choose the tram or bus. Purchasing a travel pass is more cost-effective. Accommodation can be selected according to your budget and preferences.

🇯🇵 [Ehime] Ishiteji Temple, the 51st temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, with many things to see The 51st temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, this temple is associated with Emon Saburo, who is said to be the root of the Shikoku Pilgrimage (^^) There are many things to see (^^) Founded in 728 by Ochitamazumi, the Iyo Dairyo. The main hall, three-story pagoda, bell tower, five-ringed tower, Kariteimo Ten-do, goma hall, and temple bell are all important cultural properties (^^) The Niomon Gate (national treasure), rebuilt in 1318, is a multi-story tower gate with beautiful frog-legs, and has winged corridors and balustrades on both sides. The statues of Kongorikishi on the left and right of the Niomon Gate are said to be works of the Unkei school. [Location] 2-9-21 Ishite, Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture [Access] Approx. 16 minutes walk from Dogo Onsen Station exit Approx. 16 minutes walk from Dogo Koen Station exit Approx. 23 minutes walk from Minamimachi Station exit #Free hotel stay

Ishite-ji Temple, the 51st temple of the 88 Shikoku Temples, is a temple that represents Matsuyama City. When I visited, there were several pilgrims, The temple has many things to see, such as the Niomon Gate, an important cultural property, the main hall, the three-story pagoda, and the cave filled with cold air. I was able to take my time praying while feeling the quiet and calm atmosphere👍️ It is close to Dogo Onsen and has good access, Why not stop by when you come to Dogo Onsen♪ [Name] Ishite-ji Temple [Location] 2-9-21 Ishite, Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture 790-0852 [Visit date] 2024.8.23 #Architecture and Culture #Ehime Travel #Matsuyama Tourism #Ishite-ji Temple #Domestic Travel

Address: 2 Chome-9-21 Ishite, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-0852, Japan. Getting there: Ishiteji Temple can be accessed from the Dogo Onsen tram stop in a short bus ride. Highlights: The Ishiteji Temple is located near Dogo Onsen to the northeast of Matsuyama's city center. It is the city's most famous temple. It is number 51 of the 88 temples on the Shikoku Pilgrimage. Pilgrims dressed in white are a frequent sight at this large temple. A tastefully maintained sheltered temple approach lined by shops of wooden facades lead to Ishiteji's temple grounds. The sprawling temple compound boasts several halls and temple buildings, a three-storied pagoda, various statues and an unique inner temple connected to the main grounds via a cave. Interestingly, statues and religious objects are periodically added to the temple. 😬 Opening hours: Always open Admission fee: Free of charge #bucketlistreboot #traveljapan #culturewalk